20-01-25

Natural renewable resource discovered in NSW

According to a report by Geoscience Australia and the Geological Survey of New South Wales, elevated levels of natural hydrogen and helium have been discovered in New South Wales. As per the news article, this research is an example of the benefits from the Australian Government’s $3.4 billion investment over 35 years into the Resourcing Australia’s Prosperity initiative, under its Future Made in Australia plan.

[Australia is considered one of the most prospective locations for natural hydrogen because of its ancient geology. In Australia, hydrogen gas is primarily used for industrial processes including ammonia and fertiliser production, while helium is used in medical equipment, manufacturing, research, and the space sector. Hydrogen can also be used to reduce carbon emissions from hard-to-abate industries, like remote power applications, heavy vehicle transportation, and industries like iron and steelmaking. 

Full report is available at https://d28rz98at9flks.cloudfront.net/149687/149687_00_2.pdf]

https://www.energymagazine.com.au/natural-renewable-resource-discovered-in-nsw/

Cooper Energy plans Otway Basin in NSW reinvigoration

Cooper Energy is proposing an expansion of its Casino Henry Netherby development in the Otway Basin to enhance east coast gas supply. This project aims to meet domestic gas demand as existing fields decline by tying in nearby gas fields to the existing infrastructure. It includes up to eight gas field tie-ins with up to 15 wells, infield flowlines, and manifolds, targeting confirmed resources at Annie and Henry fields and prospective resources at Elanora, Heera, Juliet, Nestor, Isabella, and Pecten East.

https://www.energytodaymag.com.au/cooper-energy-plans-otway-basin-reinvigoration/

15-1-2025

NSW Resources Regulator releases 2025 compliance priorities

The NSW Resources Regulator has outlined its compliance priorities for January to June 2025, focusing on mine safety assessments, risk management, mine rehabilitation, and compliance audits in NSW. Key areas include fire and explosion safety, air quality, and electrical engineering. Strategic projects involve reviewing the NSW mining competency system and developing a Technical Reference Guide for vehicle interaction management. Executive Director Peter Day emphasizes the importance of rehabilitation and collaboration with mine operators to ensure safety and effective risk management.

[Mining is a big business in NSW. There are few Indian companies in NSW working in the sector. Indian companies are importing resources especially coal and are collaborating for technology with Australian companies as well as inviting Mining servicing companies to develop mines in India. In critical minerals, Indian companies can seek opportunities in importing from NSW and processing them in India.]

https://mining.com.au/nsw-resources-regulator-releases-2025-compliance-priorities/

02/12/2024

NSW launches Critical Minerals and High-Tech Metals Strategy

The NSW Critical Minerals and High-Tech Metals Strategy 2024–2035, has launched recently. This aims to attract global investment and growth in the critical minerals and high-tech metals sector. It addresses the rising demand for metallic minerals driven by renewable energy and advanced technologies, potentially bringing over $7.6 billion in capital investment, 2,700 ongoing jobs, and 4,600 construction jobs in regional NSW. The strategy promotes responsible exploration, mining, processing, recycling, and advanced manufacturing, with key actions including encouraging exploration, incentivising production, establishing supply chains, developing local skills, and engaging communities.

https://www.investregional.nsw.gov.au/news/nsw-launches-critical-minerals-and-high-tech-metals-strategy

7^th May 2024

More critical minerals identified in NSW

The New South Wales (NSW) government conducted a survey to identify critical minerals for developing better understanding of the state's geological properties and groundwater supplies. NSW currently has deposits of 21 of the 31 nationally identified critical minerals, as well as occurrences of all five minerals on the Federal Government's Strategic Minerals List. The survey has highlighted several areas for further exploration, including Forbes, Dubbo, Cobar, and Yathong regions.

https://www.australianmining.com.au/more-critical-minerals-identified-in-nsw/

11 June 2024

The plan for the "largest ever" coalmine in NSW is expected to exert pressure on the state's net zero target.

The plan for the 'largest ever' coal mine in NSW is expected to increase pressure on the state's net zero target. The NSW environment regulator has raised concerns about the plan to extend the life of a Hunter Valley coal-mining complex until 2050, calling it the "largest coal-mining proposal ever put forward" in the state. This decision to extend the life has been criticized as "deeply disappointing" by green groups.

https://www.theguardian.com/environment/article/2024/may/31/nsw-glencore-coalmine-open-plan-net-zero-emissions-targets